Benefits to You

Anyone who is familiar with a hockey club anywhere in the world would know one thing, hockey can be played at practically any age.  While it is an extremely taxing sport, due to the fact it relies on skills as much as fitness it can be played competitively into one’s 50’s.

While a seven year old taking up the sport might not consider this aspect of the game, their parents should.

 

 

Key benefits include that it:

Is a great workout  

Hockey is a form of cardiovascular exercise, and whether you’re skating or running, your body benefits from the activity.  Because of the start-stop nature of the game, where quick bursts of running are broken up by periods of rest, you enjoy even greater cardio benefits.  Alternating vigorous activity with moments of recovery, known as high intensity interval training, can burn more calories.

 

Builds muscular strength  

Field hockey also provides a strength-training workout, with the core and leg muscles being developed in particular.  The sport can lead to enhanced muscular strength, as well as improvement in athletic performance.

 

Improves coordination and balance 

Having quick reactions is a must during game play.  In field hockey, players must pass and receive a ball that is traveling quickly across the field.  Developing these skills can lead to improved overall balance and agility, as well as better hand-eye coordination.

 

Promotes weight loss  

Field hockey helps reduce excess body fat.  The fast pace of the game requires short bursts of energy that helps burn calories and boost your metabolism.  Each player burns an approximate number of 0.061 calories per pound, per minute.

 

Improves breathing  

The constant use of energy and muscular strength help in the development of the cardiovascular system.  Pumping of sufficient quantities of oxygen through the blood helps improve breathing and cellular activity.

 

Builds teamwork  

Playing with a team of 11 people develops the spirit of teamwork towards successful achievement of goals and victory.

 

Boosts endurance  

The constant practice and sprinting across the field throughout a game can gradually increase your stamina.  This not only helps on the field, but also in everyday activities and other exercise routines.

 

Enhances mental strength  

Exercise itself can improve your mood because of the endorphins that are released, easing feelings of depression, stress and anxiety.  Hockey provides all these benefits and demands good decision-making and strategy, which can be transferred to both personal and professional life.

 

Improves communication  

Playing hockey involves the verbal and nonverbal communication of messages through eyes and gestures, as players communicate during a fast-paced game.  This leads to the overall improvement in the communication skills of the players.

 

Improves speed  

Field hockey not only helps strengthen the cardiovascular system, but it also helps increase your speed and stamina.  Fast footwork and agility on the field can be beneficial in everyday life, especially as you age.